Expert: Dr.Paul Skett - 6/11/2007

Question
Dear Sir,

I have done my Ph.D programme in BioChemistry and have got professional exposure in molecular biology project on isothermal amplification and SNP analysis.

With due respect to you, I am completely disappointed with waiting of more than 6 months for a job opportunity in London area. Even I am willing to volunteer to build my career. I feel humiliated, when not been called for any interview inspite of meeting criteria. Are we saying we have more applications against single requirement? Sorry Sir, this way it is not helping new generation at all.

I apologise if I offend anyone in this comment, However I feel completely helpless. Can you please offer any advice?

Thanks
Nisha

Answer
Hi, Nisha,

Thanks for your question.

I fully appreciate the frustration of not finding a suitable position to use your expertise and training - however, you need to persevere and look at different things.

Why limit yourself to London? The greatest concentration of scientific talent is there and, thus, it will be more difficult to find a job. Can you spread your wings a bit?

Also, simply filling the criteria for a job is not enough - you have to make yourself stand out from the crowd - we can get over 300 applicants for a position here - most don't make it past the sifting stage (we probably seriously consider 10-15) - is your c.v. up to standard? - get someone in the field who looks at applications/c.v.'s to look at it.

OK, so you have a Ph.D. - so does everyone else applying for the job, OK you have molecular biology "exposure" (what does that mean?)- so will everyone else.

Finally, remember that YOU get the job, not your qualifications.

Don't despair - keep plugging away - maybe take a job that is below what you want - it is easier to get a job from a  job.

Hope this helps.

Best wishes,

Paul